Development and Culture Must Progress Together to Build Strong and Prosperous Society: President Smt. Murmu

President Smt. Droupadi Murmu said that empowerment of society should not be limited only to economic development. True empowerment takes place when self-confidence, self-respect, awareness and a sense of responsibility are developed within an individual. President Smt. Murmu said that tribal society is a community that lives with self-respect, and this very characteristic makes it unique. She said that spiritual awakening enables individuals to realise their inner strength and connects positive thinking with the higher ideals of life. She said that a balance between development and culture forms the foundation of any strong and prosperous society. President Smt. Murmu was addressing the mega conference on “Empowerment of Tribal Society Through Spiritual Awakening” held in Betul. She said that sustainable development is that which strengthens our roots while opening pathways to future possibilities.

President Smt. Murmu said that India has set a goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. Achievement of this goal will be possible only when every section of society becomes part of the mainstream of development. She said that India’s cultural and natural heritage, from Himalayas to Kanyakumari, must remain protected and intact. She said that such conferences organised by Brahma Kumaris Institution would prove highly useful for spiritual upliftment, social awareness and holistic development of tribal society.

President Smt. Murmu lauded the Government of Madhya Pradesh and said that several schemes are being implemented in the state for education, healthcare and tribal welfare. Referring specifically to sickle cell anaemia, she said that the disease is more prevalent in tribal areas and effective efforts are being made for its eradication. President Smt. Murmu expressed confidence that these initiatives would further improve health standards of tribal communities.

President Smt. Murmu said that Betul district of Madhya Pradesh is known across the country for its rich tribal culture, natural beauty and spiritual consciousness. The tribal communities here have preserved their traditions, indigenous knowledge and cultural values through generations. Values such as collective living, cooperation, simplicity, honesty and spirituality are vividly reflected in the tribal culture of Betul.

President Smt. Murmu said that she was delighted to participate in the mega conference focused on empowerment of tribal communities. Congratulating Brahma Kumaris Institution for this important initiative, she said that the event holds significance not only for Betul or Madhya Pradesh, but for the entire nation and society. She expressed confidence that action plans emerging from the conference would play an important role in making tribal society a strong partner in the nation’s progress.

President Smt. Murmu said that Brahma Kumaris Institution has advanced its programmes and initiatives by placing women’s empowerment at the centre. The institution’s emphasis on purity, human dignity, spirit of service and sensitivity towards nature is inspiring for society. She said that in today’s fast-paced world, the importance of inner purity and spiritual values has increased more than ever. These values help develop equitable conduct, sensitivity towards nature and a commitment to conservation of natural resources. At a time when the world is facing tension, conflict and war-like situations, such gatherings have become even more necessary.

President Smt. Murmu said that the lifestyle of tribal communities has naturally remained close to spiritual values and nature. Tribal society, also known as Adivasi society, has lived in harmony with Earth since the beginning of creation. This community knows how to live with happiness, peace, joy and love, while remaining distant from violence. She said that tribal society reveres not only nature but also the fundamental elements of existence, namely Earth, sky, air, water, Sun and Moon. For them, no specific temple or place of worship is necessary because nature itself is their centre of devotion.

President Smt. Murmu said that human life cannot be imagined without Earth, water and air. Tribal communities protect nature rather than harm it. They do not damage land, pollute water sources or exploit natural resources beyond necessity. She said that tribal people offer respect to nature before using any resource, which is why their way of life presents an excellent example of environmental conservation. At a time when the world is increasingly recognizing the need to protect forests, rivers and oceans, the tribal way of life can serve as a guide for humanity.

President Smt. Murmu inaugurated the mega conference on ‘Empowerment of Tribal Society Through Spiritual Awakening’ by presenting a ceremonial kalash and flag to Brahma Kumari sisters. During the conference, Rajyogini Manju Didi welcomed President Smt. Murmu, Governor Shri Mangubhai Patel and other guests by presenting mementoes.

President Smt. Murmu also visited an exhibition showcasing the cultural heritage of Betul district and various development initiatives. She appreciated products prepared through natural farming by tribal communities. President Smt. Murmu said that increasing use of chemical fertilisers and foreign pesticides is damaging soil fertility and contributing to many diseases. She said that natural farming has been India’s traditional practice and that the country is once again moving in that direction. Natural farming is beneficial not only for health but also positively influences the mind, body and spiritual consciousness. She said that Brahma Kumaris Institution has been working for many years alongside tribal communities to promote a natural way of life and conservation of nature.

President Smt. Murmu said that in this rapidly changing era, tribal youth must be connected with modern education, skill development and digital empowerment so that they can benefit from contemporary resources. At the same time, their cultural identity, traditions and spiritual heritage must be preserved.

President Smt. Murmu said that Brahma Kumaris Institution has been continuously working for several decades in Betul and surrounding areas for spiritual awakening, promotion of moral values, de-addiction, women’s empowerment, youth development and social upliftment. Through meditation and spiritual education, the institution has brought peace, balance and renewed hope into the lives of thousands of people. Its role in promoting positive thinking and spiritual development among tribal communities has been significant.

President Smt. Murmu said that when service and spirituality come together, lasting and positive change becomes possible in society. This mega conference is a powerful example of such a convergence and will play an important role in providing a new direction to society. She called upon all citizens to work with greater commitment and dedication towards building a Developed India by 2047. She said that social harmony, environmental conservation, spiritual consciousness and human welfare will form the foundation of an inclusive and developed India.

Spiritual Awakening is Effective Means for Empowerment of Tribal Society: Governor Shri Patel

Governor Shri Mangubhai Patel said that spiritual consciousness and religious values inspire society to lead an elevated, cultured and dignified life. Expressing gratitude to Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya for organising this grand and inspiring event, he conveyed his best wishes to all members of the institution.

Governor Shri Patel said that he has shared a close association with Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Institution since 1995. From the Brahma Kumaris centre located opposite his residence in Navsari to programmes held in Mount Abu, Gandhinagar and other places, he has had opportunities to participate in many of its activities. He said that the institution’s efforts to bring positive change in society through spiritual awakening are commendable and worthy of emulation.

Drawing from his personal experience, Governor Shri Patel said that dedicating some time every day to meditation brings peace of mind, positive energy and inner balance. Such spiritual practices foster happiness, harmony and well-being in individual lives and provide positive direction to society.

President Smt. Murmu’s Life is Remarkable Example of Struggle and Dedication to Duty: Union Minister Shri Uike

Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Shri Durgadas Uike said that President Smt. Murmu, who rose from a small tribal village in Odisha to occupy the highest constitutional office in the country, is a living example of the strength of Indian democracy, greatness of the Constitution and social harmony.

Shri Uike said that President Smt. Murmu’s life is an extraordinary example of struggle, dedication, service and commitment to duty. Through hard work, perseverance and unwavering dedication to the upliftment of marginalised communities, she has not only adorned the nation’s highest constitutional office but has also become an inspiration for every daughter, every member of tribal society and every ordinary citizen of the country.

He said that the people of Betul, particularly tribal families, feel proud of the President’s visit. Her leadership inspires all citizens towards social justice, protection of constitutional values and nation-building.

On the arrival of President Smt. Murmu, a seven-member troupe from Anhad Sangeet Mahavidyalaya, Betul, presented an attractive and captivating welcome dance performance.

Minister of State for Public Health and Medical Education Shri Narendra Shivaji Patel, Rajyogini Shailaja Didi, Rajyogini Manju Didi and Rajyogi Dr. BK Nathmalji of Brahma Kumaris Institution were also present on the occasion.